Finance Controller

Financial Controller / Finance Manager, Knaresborough, | £50,000 - £55,000 & bonus

An established business in Knaresborough is looking for an experienced Financial Controller / Finance Manager.

This is a great opportunity to join the business at an important stage of its development and take genuine ownership of the finance function. They are looking for someone who will understand the business, know the numbers, improve the systems, develop the team, challenge when necessary and help the company make good decisions. You’ll work closely with their senior management and Finance Director, providing accurate financial information, commercial insight and challenge where needed.

What you'll be doing

Taking day-to-day ownership of the finance function.

Preparing and reviewing monthly management accounts.

Managing reconciliations, ledgers, cash flow and balance sheet controls.

Supporting budgeting, forecasting and financial planning.

Providing meaningful financial analysis and commercial insight.

Monitoring performance, identifying trends and investigating variances.

Supporting year-end accounts, audit, VAT and statutory reporting.

Maintaining strong financial controls and ensuring processes are robust.

Improving the use of Xero, automation and financial systems.

Identifying ways to reduce manual work and improve efficiency.

Providing financial support across the wider Group, including new businesses as they develop.

Managing, mentoring and developing our existing Finance team, including two trainee accountants.

Requirements

Ideally be ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualified. Qualified by experience will also be considered.

Strong experience in financial management and control.

Experience producing management accounts.

Strong reconciliation and problem-solving skills.

Experience with budgeting and forecasting.

Excellent attention to detail.

Strong Excel/spreadsheet skills.

Experience using modern accounting systems. Xero experience would be beneficial, training can be provided

The confidence to work independently and take ownership.

The ability to explain financial information clearly to non-financial colleagues.

A hands-on, practical approach.

More than just a finance role

We’re looking for someone who wants to understand the business, not just the accounts.

You’ll have the opportunity to

Work directly with senior management.

Influence commercial decision-making.

Improve systems and processes.

Help shape the finance function as the business grows.

Develop and mentor the next generation of finance professionals.

Gain exposure to a wider Group and new business ventures.

This is an exciting time to join a growing organisation and take genuine ownership of an important business function. There could also be the opportunity further down the line to progress to a Director position

If you’re an experienced finance professional looking for a role where you can make a real difference — we’d like to hear from you.